Tragic DUI Crash Claims Life of Young Cuban Father
A 40-year-old Indian-origin woman has been sentenced to seven years in prison for causing a devastating crash that killed a young father of two on Interstate 85 in Georgia's Gwinnett County. Sonal Nandkishor Patel pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide and driving under the influence in the 2024 accident that ended the life of Omar Ortiz, who had recently moved to the United States from Cuba to build a better future for his children.
The Fatal Collision and Investigation
The tragic incident occurred when Patel's vehicle collided with a stopped car carrying Omar Ortiz and his aunt-in-law. Omar died at the spot from the impact of the collision. When police officers arrived at the scene, bodycam footage captured Patel telling them that she was okay, despite the severity of the crash.
Investigators uncovered disturbing details about Patel's condition at the time of the accident. Prosecutors revealed that she was under the influence of alcohol and the prescription drug Trazodone and had reportedly not slept for up to two days before getting behind the wheel. Further investigation found that Patel had cocaine in her vehicle and had previously stopped her car on the interstate before falling asleep at the wheel.
Adding to the negligence, Patel was driving with a suspended license when the fatal collision occurred. The crash claimed the life of Omar Ortiz just days after he had realized his dream of moving to America from Cuba to provide better opportunities for his two children.
Legal Proceedings and Family Outrage
Following her arrest, Patel was granted bond, a decision that triggered significant backlash from Ortiz's grieving family. The family's attorney claimed that Patel is a repeat offender, highlighting concerns about her driving history and patterns of irresponsible behavior.
In a negotiated plea agreement, Patel pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle and DUI charges. She received a 25-year sentence but will spend only seven years in prison as part of the plea deal. After completing her prison term, she will serve the remainder of her sentence on probation under strict supervision.
The case has drawn attention to the serious consequences of driving under the influence and the tragic ripple effects such decisions can have on multiple families. The sentencing brings some closure to Ortiz's family, though it cannot undo the permanent loss of a father who sought only to provide a better life for his children.
